Across the pond, there’s another confirmation of data breaches resulting from human error. So what exactly does that mean?
From verbal disclosure to sending emails to the wrong recipients, a range of insider-caused mistakes can lead to data breaches. Unfortunately, the ones who end up losing are both customers and organizations.
That’s why it’s crucial to train your staff to prevent cybersecurity incidents. With that said, let’s focus on how to create secure passwords to keep your company-related accounts from being hacked.
1. Long May Your Passwords Be
A strong password isn’t exactly one that’s more complex. Rather than complexity, go for a lengthy password with a minimum of 12 characters.
Even if you’re concerned that your password is too personal, it’s still a better option than random letters, as long as it’s 13 characters and above. Keep in mind that password-cracking programs can figure out an eight-character password in mere seconds.
Something like “MyKidsFavoriteColorIsOrange” or a passphrase such as “That11DoPigTh@tllDo” are more challenging to crack through brute-force attacks.
2. Consider Using a Random Password Generator
Even if you insist that your employees only use a unique password for business accounts, it won’t be effective if they don’t understand what that means precisely.
By using a password manager, you and your staff don’t have to worry about what passwords to use and where to store them safely. That’s because good password managers already include tools for generating passwords. Not only are these passwords random, but they’re also filtered so you don’t get options like “aaaaaaaaaa” or “C0vfefe!”
Now, if you have newly onboarded workers, remember to have a cyber awareness knowledge check. Beyond helping them use a password generator, this kind of training will help your employees stay data-compliant and empower them to combat malicious attacks from external (or even internal) forces.
3. Embrace Unpredictability
This is easier said than done, but being unpredictable is one of the best ways to create secure passwords. That means not only changing passwords regularly but also not reusing old ones.
Especially with the latter, you must realize that one password for all accounts is a security risk. Imagine if one account got hacked. It’s only a matter of time before others get compromised too.
As for when to change passwords, consider doing it every three to six months. Beyond following information security protocols, the goal here is to reduce unauthorized access to your accounts.
Bonus: Other Ways to Secure Passwords
Internet safety rules demand additional layers, such as 2FA (two-factor authentication) for security purposes. 2FA means a code on your phone, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
It’s also good to avoid common mistakes, like using default passwords. On the IT side, be sure to have secure password recovery processes in place.
At Pegasus, we understand the challenge of managing complex passwords across numerous access points, which is essential for robust cybersecurity. That’s why we provide Pegasus Vault, your ultimate digital safeguard. This tool is your business’s invisible, indestructible armor, eliminating the hassle of remembering multiple passwords. Upgrade to Pegasus Vault and transform your business into an impenetrable digital fortress, effortlessly.
Keep Your Organization Password-Savvy
Now that you know some tips on creating secure passwords, do you think it’s time to revisit your company’s cybersecurity policies?
We can help. Pegasus Technologies offers all potential clients a personality test before onboarding. When you sign with us, you get technical support professionals, as well as a dedicated account manager.
If you’re looking for a managed IT provider in Kennett Square, Wayne, or Media, PA, contact us so we can discuss how to optimize your business technology.
